Shirley M. Pendergast

KNOX- Shirley M. Pendergast, 78, passed away on Wednesday, January 11, 2017.

Shirley was born on August 10, 1938 to the late Orville and Ada Van Buren in Knox, NY.

Shirley grew up on the family farm, attending the Bozenkill School that now sits at the Altamont Fairgrounds. She continued to walk up to the farm every day to help with chores, while raising her 5 boys. She was very active in the lives of her 5 grandchildren, who have grown to become caring adults. Their thoughtful nature most certainly developed through the time they spent with Shirley. She was an avid gardener, and loved working outdoors. With a heart of gold, Shirley's door was always open to family and neighbors. No one went hungry after a visit with Shirley. Her love of children was rewarded by having several local youngsters under her care over the years.

In addition to her parents, Shirley is predeceased by her son Richard Rue, her brothers Ralph, Jesse, Herman, and Harold Van Buren, and her sister Helen Rivenburgh.

She is survived by her husband John Pendergast, whom she married in 1977; her sons Russell, Robert, Roger, and Ronald Rue; grandchildren Christopher, Jeremy, Kathleen, Scott, and Jessica; great-grandchildren Isaac, Jason, and Benjamin; and sisters Viola LaDock and Judy Kolanchick. Many nieces and nephews also survive her.

The family would like to send special thanks to Peter and Kathy Bashwinger for their countless hours caring for Shirley when she needed it most. The family would also like to express their gratitude to the staff at The Grand in Guilderland Center.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Shirley can be made to the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society Click To Donate or the
American Diabetes Association Click To Donate

Calling hours will be held at New Comer Funeral Home, 343 New Karner Road, Albany, NY 12205, on Friday, January 20, 2017, from 10:00am-12:00pm with a memorial service to immediately follow.